Tillman's Bar and Lounge: A must go

In New York there are a lot of places that claim to be the real thing in fun, upscale lounges.  I've read one too many City Search guides and lounge websites and then, listening to them, experienced one too many completely cheesy, uncomfortable, expensive, and boring nights.  I didn't have that experience at Tillman's.  I went with a friend who had been many times before. I checked out the website before I went and I was a little skeptical.  The description was too good, if you know what I mean. 

I got to Tillman's a little bit before my friends and I was pleasantly surprised by... everything.   The website description had been too good and it was  true.  Everyone there was laughing, flirting and drinking.  The manager and the doorman were respectful, but personable.  The music was soulful - your favorites from your parents' music collection, neo-soul, and R&B from today and from when you were in middle school.  I wouldn't call the food offering soul food, as the website calls it, but it was still delicious.  Tillman's is known for its pressed sandwiches.  I loved the patty melt and the mac and cheese is amazing.  Lastly, but definitely not least, the cocktails were good and strong.  From what I could tell, they don't really do small drinks so you get what you pay for, unlike some lounges.

There were a few issues: if you don't have a reservation you might get in if you are a female, but you won't if you are a guy unless you are with some girls.  Also, they'll want you to buy a bottle of liquor, not champagne, if you go on a Saturday night and want to hang out at your table.  Lastly, the food and drinks aren't cheap, but that is to be expected at a soulful and beautiful place like Tillman's